Malaysia Joins the Madrid System

September 27, 2019

On September 27, 2019, the Government of Malaysia deposited its instrument of accession to the Madrid Protocol with WIPO’s Director General, making Malaysia the 106th member of the Madrid System, which now covers 122 countries. The Protocol will enter into force for Malaysia on December 27th, 2019.

Video: Malaysia joins the Madrid System

Starting December 27th, 2019 local brand owners in Malaysia can begin using the Madrid System to protect their marks in the 121 territories of the System’s other 105 members by filing a single international application and paying a single set of fees.

With its straightforward designation process, foreign companies and trademark owners can, from December 2019, seek trademark protection through the Madrid System when selling their products and services in Malaysia.

The deposit, made by Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry Secretary General Datuk Muez Abdul Aziz, includes declarations under Articles 5(2)(b) and (c) of the Protocol (extension of the refusal period to 18 months and beyond for oppositions), Article 8(7)(a) of the Protocol (individual fees), and under Rules 7(2) (intent to use) and 20bis(6)(b) (recording of licenses in the International Register has no effect in Malaysia), of the Common Regulations.

Protecting your brand in Malaysia

Malaysia’s accession spotlights the Madrid System’s emergence as a key component of protecting marks internationally, offering a convenient and cost-effective solution for brand owners worldwide and in the ASEAN region.

If you’re interested in seeking protection for your trademark in Malaysia, use the Global Brand Database to browse marks currently registered in that market before you file an international application.

Stay tuned for more information about Malaysia’s trademark laws and practices in the Member Profiles Database.

Are you the holder of an international registration? Use our online e-Subsequent Designation service and expand the scope of protection to include Malaysia’s consumer market. Then, track the status of your request with Madrid Monitor.

About the Madrid System

The Madrid System makes it possible for you to apply for trademark protection in up to 122 territories by filing a single international application with the national or regional IP office of a Madrid System member.

With the Madrid System, the process of multinational trademark registration is streamlined through a single application and management process.

Today, the Madrid Registry is focused on delivering a streamlined, customer-driven experience for users throughout the lifecycle of their mark with its evolving suite of e-services and online resources.

More information